Once the malware encrypts all files, it ensures that the computer user gets the message from EWDF ransomware operators. For this matter, the virus saves a copy of a ransom note dubbed _readme.txt in each affected data folder. In short, this file explains what happened to computer files and what do the cybercriminals want from the victim.

What’s explained in the ransom note

The ransom note left by the criminals in a form of a _readme.txt text file can be found in every data folder containing some encrypted files. The message in it explains that the ransomware has encrypted victim’s files with strongest encryption algorithms and that the only way to reverse the damage is to use a data decryption software along with a unique decryption key. However, these tools are held by the cybercriminals behind the attack, who now suggest that they want the victim to pay a ransom. To test these tools, the threat actors suggest sending one encrypted file sample to them via email and they promise to respond with a decrypted version attached. The note suggests that the cybercriminals may apply a 50% discount on the initial ransom price if the victim rushes to contact the attackers via provided emails (admin@helpdata.top and supportsys@airmail.cc). If the victim succeeds to reach out to the criminals within 72 hours, they agree to settle the decryption price for $490. Otherwise, they demand paying the full amount, which is $980. One way or another, the crooks will instruct the victim to purchase cryptocurrency worth the amount and transfer it to their virtual wallet address. They also may provide additional information related to buying virtual currency if the victim has zero experience with it. The reason why the criminals seek to convince the victim to pay using blockchain-based currencies is that it gives them anonymity and prevents law enforcement agencies from tracking the payments. Remember that paying the ransom is not a good option. Not only it doesn’t guarantee data recovery, but it also helps the cybercriminals continue their operations, employ more developers or distributors and so on. If the victims keep paying, the criminals keep creating new attack schemes. For this reason, we strongly advise that you do not pay the ransom and read more about FBI’s recommendations regarding ransomware incidents.

Data encryption is usually the main part of a ransomware attack, but sadly, that is not the only damage the virus is set to inflict on the target systems. In case of STOP/DJVU, our experts have noticed that it mostly spreads in tandem with VIDAR/AZORULT malware, and both of these are known to be dangerous Remote Access Trojans (RATs). In other words, these threats can be used to extract sensitive information from victim’s computer, including one’s passwords, cryptocurrency wallets, banking information, browsing history, cookies, and more. Afterward, the criminals may use collected data to blackmail the victim. That being said, we strongly recommend that you remove EWDF ransomware virus without a delay. For this task, remember to boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking (see a guide provided below) and then run an antivirus scan. On top of that, we recommend using RESTORO (secure download link) to repair virus damage on Windows OS files. Many users who have tried this tool agree that it works like a charm when it comes to repairing damaged Windows files and fixing various system errors.

Ransomware Summary

REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE The screenshot provided below displays a data folder containing ransomware-encrypted files and the ransom note.

Ransomware distribution explained

Ransomware is usually hidden in files named as something else that users can download from the Internet. To be specific, STOP/DJVU variants like EWDF virus usually await for potential victims in rogue pages advertising cracked software versions. The victim usually downloads the “setup” via a generated link, only to find out that it is an executable of a severe computer malware. Our experts advise computer users to avoid using peer-to-peer sharing networks or rogue websites to download pirated software versions. Instead, we strongly recommend visiting official and secure websites, ideally those that belong to companies behind these legitimate computer programs. By purchasing license keys to activate software in a genuine way, you can be sure the copy is secure, 100% functional and risk-free. Another popular ransomware distribution method involves email spam. Cybercriminals create phishing messages that urge the victim to open email attachments (those usually come in PDF, DOCX, XLS or JS formats). These files may be named as invoices, order summaries, parcel tracking details and similar. These files are filled with scripts that are set to download the ransomware from an external source and run it on victim’s computer. Due to such criminal activity, we advise computer users to be extremely vigilant when checking their email inboxes and avoid clicking on attachments or links in messages that seem suspicious or unexpected. Cybercriminals have many other methods to spread ransomware: they may hide in in fake software update tools, drive-by downloads, fake online ads, or even rogue ransomware decryption tools.

Remove EWDF Ransomware Virus and Decrypt Files

In order to remove EWDF ransomware virus, we recommend following the instructions prepared by our team. You can find guidelines on how to boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking and then run a chosen antivirus software to scan the entire file system. Using an automatic malware removal software is a good idea especially because tracking down all of the malicious components dropped by a computer threat can be a tedious task. On top of that, we also recommend downloading RESTORO and scanning your computer with it. It can help to repair virus-damaged files of the Windows OS. OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system: GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more. Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs. Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer. Read full review here. RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically. RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them. Read full review here.

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove EWDF Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube. Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users Now, you can search for and remove EWDF Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.

Method 2. Use System Restore

In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically. Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won’t be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense If you’re looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek’s Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.

Decrypt EWDF files

Fix and open large EWDF files easily:

It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.

STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide

STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. EWDF Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like BPTO, ISWR, ISZA, BPSM, ZOUU, MBTF, ZNSM (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie. Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible. In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt EWDF files, follow the given tutorial.

Meanings of decryptor’s messages

The EWDF decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages: Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID] This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor’s database. No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible. Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future. If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn’t available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your EWDF extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.

Victims of EWDF Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:

In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.

If you can’t find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up “[your country name] report cyber crime”. This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities. Another recommendation is to contact your country’s or region’s federal police or communications authority.